Importance

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Abstract

A catheter system is provided for the introduction and placement of a flexible catheter into the lumen of an artery or vein. A guide wire is provided and is kept in a sterile condition within a flexible bag-like enclosure attached to the hub of a needle. The needle cannula is hollow and is sharpened in the usual manner and is secured in a hub to provide a needle assembly. This hub is provided with a skirt and the cannula extends through this hub and into flow communication with a 'flashback' indicator. In one embodiment the cannula is formed with a transverse hole near its interior end and in the other embodiment the cannula's inner end is in flow communication with a channel and then to a longitudinal or annular groove in a centering plug. In every embodiment there is a centering plug which provides a guideway for the guide wire which is positioned in this guideway to prevent fluid flow. The guidewire is manipulated forwardly into the lumen after penetration has been made as indicated by the 'flashback'. The catheter is separated from the needle hub and advanced along the guidewire until placement is achieved after which the needle, guidewire and bag are withdrawn from the patient and discarded.

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First Claim